Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. announced today the expansion of the S-92A® helicopter’s operating envelope with approval by the Federal Aviation Administration to execute Category A vertical takeoffs and landings from ground-level helipads. Sikorsky, a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX), announced the new certification at the Heli-Expo industry show in Orlando.

To receive this certification, a helicopter must, among other requirements, be able to continue operating safely in the event of a single engine failure, either by landing or continuing to fly to safety from the helipad. The certification process is intended to increase safety particularly in densely populated areas with ground-level helipads such as metropolitan hospitals. The S-92A helicopters’ certified performance capabilities also include Category A and B airfield take-off and landing, and Class D certification for carrying occupants externally such as by rescue hoist.

“During the past 12 months, we have added more than 20 enhancements to the S-92 helicopter and increased its capabilities significantly. This is a robust, proven and rugged aircraft that we are committed to continually improving,” said Carey Bond, president of Sikorsky Global Helicopters.

S-92 helicopters perform search and rescue and a variety of transportation missions for VIPs including Heads of State, offshore oil and gas crews, and utility and airline passengers. The worldwide fleet of 132 S-92 helicopters has accumulated more than 295,000 flight hours since deliveries began in 2004.

Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., based in Stratford, Conn., is a world leader in helicopter design, manufacture, and service. Sikorsky Global Helicopters, a Sikorsky company, develops and produces civil certified helicopters and their derivatives. Its portfolio includes the S-76®, S-92® and H-92™ helicopters as well as the S-300C™, S-300 CBi™, S-333™ and S-434™ light helicopters. Also part of Sikorsky Global helicopters is Associated Aircraft Group (AAG), a provider of charter and fractional ownership services.

United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Conn., provides a broad range of high-technology products and support services to the aerospace and building systems.